With comedies like Barbershop and Taxi on his resume, Tim Story was considered a strange choice to direct Fantastic Four. Unfortunately, whatever Fox saw in him didn’t resonate with critics, as both the 2005 film and its 2007 sequel were considered misfires. More recently, Story has lent his filmmaking talents to another kind of hero, Shaft. While speaking with CinemaBlend about that film, the director offered his thoughts on Marvel’s plans for a reboot starring their First Family. When asked what he’d say to whoever directs the next FF movie, Story kept it simple.
“First, I’d tell them to listen to Kevin Feige,” said Story. “Kevin Feige is the man.”
Feige served as an executive producer on Fantastic Four and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. Although Story’s advice seems easy enough, it wasn’t the only bit of advice he had to give.
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“I would just say, do all your research on Reed Richards,” continued Story. “Stretching is not easy. But I wouldn’t have much to say, they’ve got an incredible, incredible system happening over there and I don’t think they need to be told anything. I can’t wait to see it.”
Regardless of any valid criticisms, Story’s FF movies aren’t without their redeeming qualities. Both Fantastic Four and Rise of the Silver Surfer did a respectable job of translating the family dynamic from the comics. Plus, Stan Lee once said that Michael Chiklis as The Thing was his favorite bit of Marvel casting. It’s hard to ask for much higher praise than that.
What do you think of Tim Story’s advice to the next Fantastic Four director? What other tips would you suggest? Let us know in the comment section below!
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